Correlation between aerobic capacity and fatigue in subjects with post-polio syndrome

Introduction: Post-polio syndrome (PPS) is defined by Halstead and Ross as having a period of at least 15 years of neurologic and functional stability followed by onset of two or more of the following new health problems: unexplained fatigue, muscle or joint pain, muscle weakness, and cold intolerance and exclusion of other medical diagnosis. Fatigue occurs in 59?89% of PPS patients. Aerobic capacity during functional activities may also decrease in subjects with PPS which may lead to fatigue or vice versa. This study aimed to correlate the aerobic capacity using the 2 minute walk distance (2MWD) with fatigue using Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) in subjects with PPS. Material and methods: An observational study using convenience sampling was conducted in a community setting, in Surat on 19 individuals with PPS. Inclusion criteria were according to the old Halstead criteria and individuals who were able to walk with and without walking aids. Individuals who were on psychotropic medications, a diagnosed respiratory or cardiac condition, who were uncooperative due to cognitive impairment and those who were unwilling to participate were excluded. Outcome measures were Two Minute Walk distance (2MWD) for aerobic capacity and Fatigue Severity Scale (FSS) for fatigue. The subjects were asked to fill a questionnaire which included their demographic data and the Fatigue Severity Scale. They were asked to walk on a 25 m long corridor as far as they could, for 2 minutes. They were explained that if they felt breathless or fatigued, then they could stop. At the completion of 2 minutes, distance was recorded. Results: The mean 2MWD was 76.02±1.37 m and FSS was 40.25±3.50. The value of Spearman’s correlation coefficient was -0.46 (p=0.48).The study shows moderate correlation between FSS and 2MWD which was statistically significant. Conclusion: Fatigue influences the aerobic capacity of subjects with post-polio syndrome and vice versa.